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IT periodically issues standards, policies, and general guidance by means of management instructions, handbooks, and technical bulletins, in order to supplement guidance in terms of updated standards and policy interpretations. To ensure compliance with these standards, Provision 4-7: Postal Computing Environment should be included in all IT-related solicitations and contracts.
The IT organization conducts market research and technical appraisals of the IT marketplace and potential suppliers. Technical appraisals of potential suppliers are conducted at various points during the purchasing process, particularly during the presolicitation phase. The objective is to proactively ensure seamless integration into the Postal Service’s computing environment. Suppliers interested in having their products or services appraised by the IT organization must submit a request to that organization. Additionally, contracting officers should encourage the requirements organization to seek a similar review of their current and future requirements by the IT organization. Lastly, prequalification of suppliers should be considered for all IT purchases (see Section 2-22, Prequalify Suppliers).
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